Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media, recurrent, left ear

This code signifies an inflammation of the middle ear, not caused by bacterial infection leading to pus formation, that affects the left ear and recurs over time. It indicates a non-infectious or non-bacterial inflammatory process within the middle ear space.

Apply this code when documentation specifies recurrent, acute otitis media in the left ear without evidence of suppuration (pus). This is appropriate for cases of serous, mucoid, or allergic otitis media that resolve and then reoccur. Supporting documentation should clearly state "recurrent" and "nonsuppurative" for the left ear.

• Differentiate from suppurative otitis media (H65.0- series) which involves pus formation.
• Ensure laterality (left ear) is explicitly documented; do not assume.
• If the laterality is unspecified, use the appropriate unspecified code (H65.199).